Auto Maintenance

Almost 90% of all "run-ability" issues I see posted is maintenance related. Sure cars have advanced with technology but maintenance is critical to the reliability of your vehicle. With tech advances you can go farther between maintenance intervals but it's still required. I make it a point when I buy a vehicle new or used, first thing is get acquainted with service schedules. How often or mileage. As mentioned above 90% of breakdowns and run ability issues are due to lack of maintenance. With used vehicles it should be the very first thing you do to it before putting it through the paces of daily use is too, do a healthy tune up. Who knows when last service was performed? Most lots or sellers don't know or remember and very few ever document it. You're driving on blind faith and when something goes wrong the amount of possibilities of diagnosis multiplies because the basic maintenance was overlooked. Which leeds to service/fault lights on dashboards. The check engine light is multi functional. It's usually triggered when you vehicle has stumbled, a part failed or something as simple as a connector has come loose. Each manufacturer has a list of codes pertaining to a particular part or function of parts connected to your vehicles computer. It basically diagnosis' itself but in a language that the manufacture has set. When it comes to reading the codes you have options. #1 many of us have invested into code readers (common OBII scanners) you can purchase them at about any parts store or online and they range from about $60 up to a couple of thousand $$$ depending on how many options you want. The basic ones are great for the DIYers for just reading codes and resetting lights. Another option that has come about in last couple of years is many auto parts stores offer this as a FREE service. They will come out to your car, scan your computer, give you a list of faults and most will be able to help you solve what's ailing your car. I say MOST because I have heard feedback of "kid behind counter didn't have a clue" - that happens. In either case you can read the codes and not guess or throw parts and a ton of $$$ at a fix blindly. The codes do aim you in the right direction. Lastly, performing maintenance will give your car longevity,reliability and if you do it yourself personal satisfaction plus you SAVE big $$$ doing it yourself.
Happy Motoring!